Date of Conferral
3-21-2025
Date of Award
March 2025
Degree
Doctor of Human Services (D.H.S.)
School
Human Services
Advisor
Crissie Jameson
Abstract
The prevalence of opioid use disorder (OUD) among African American men in Georgia has risen significantly, highlighting the need for specialized clinical approaches. Clinicians face complex challenges in delivering effective treatment and support. This qualitative interpretive phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of clinicians working with African American men in OUD treatment programs in Georgia. Grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, the study utilized semistructured interviews with eleven clinicians. Four key themes emerged from the analysis: (a) barriers to treatment, as stigma and systemic inequities hinder engagement; (b) cultural competency challenges, as clinicians strive to provide care that aligns with clients’ lived experiences; (c) the impact of family and community involvement, which can either support or obstruct treatment progress; and (d) employment-related difficulties, as job instability affects treatment adherence. These findings may emphasize the necessity of culturally responsive interventions, challenge biases and stereotypes, and inform evidence-based strategies to improve treatment access, engagement, and retention among African American men with opioid use disorder (OUD).
Recommended Citation
Paige, Christian Ann, "Lived Experiences of Clinicians Who Support African American Men in Treatment Programs for Opioid Use Disorder in Georgia" (2025). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 17513.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/17513
